The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be fully committed to a rebuild. While they’ve surprisingly held on to star closer Ryan Helsley so far, that may change as the season approaches. Helsley’s contract expires after the 2025 season, and he’s expected to sign an $81 million deal in free agency, likely not with St. Louis. Trading him would make sense for the Cardinals to strengthen their rebuilding efforts.
Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report recently predicted that the Cardinals would trade Helsley, suggesting a deal that would send the closer to the Arizona Diamondbacks. In exchange, the Cardinals would receive right-handed pitcher Yilber Diaz (ranked No. 6 in the Diamondbacks’ prospect list). Rymer noted that the Diamondbacks, despite improving their rotation in 2024, still have a weak bullpen, and acquiring Helsley would significantly boost their relief pitching. Although the Diamondbacks may not have much to offer, they could entice the Cardinals with a prospect who could contribute immediately.
A trade for Helsley would elevate the Diamondbacks in the National League West, positioning them as strong contenders against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers.
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